In early May, Creative Native, Tiana Nonosina Liufau brought her much-anticipated RIMA show to life in Orange County, California, at the Grove of Anaheim. Tiana, a proud representative of her Polynesian heritage, showcased her unique blend of creativity and cultural reverence in a display of music and movement. Described as fierce yet humble, Tiana’s artistic approach was deeply rooted in the rich traditions of her heritage. She’s not just a dancer, but a versatile artist who seamlessly transitions between roles as a drummer, musician, choreographer, scholar, and cultural educator. Her journey through UCLA’s World Arts & Culture Program had further enriched her perspective, shaping her into a role model and steadfast advocate for the Asian-American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.
RIMA, Tiana’s brainchild, was more than just an event – it was a celebration of life told through the language of music and dance. Drawing inspiration from her upbringing, which straddled the worlds of Polynesian tradition and West Coast influence, RIMA offered a glimpse into Tiana’s creative process and personal narrative. Each performance at RIMA was a testament to Tiana’s artistic vision and the diverse influences that shaped her work. Spanning from lively Polynesian beats to contemporary R&B rhythms, the landscapes she crafted provided the canvas for fascinating movement-to-music sequences that unfolded on stage. One of the highlights of RIMA was Tiana’s intimate sharing of her creative process with the audience. Prior to each dance number, she delved into the inspirations fueling her choreography and music selections, granting the audience a glimpse into her creative intuition.
“I AM A DESCENDANT OF MY ANCESTORS’ KNOWLEDGE. MY VA’A (boat) NEVER STOPPED SAILING.”
– Tiana Nonosina Liufau
During the show, Tiana paid heartfelt tribute to her late grandmother, Estella “Gram” Reid, the founder of Nonosina. Gram’s unwavering dedication to dance laid the foundation for Nonosina’s enduring legacy, which had flourished for over 57 years. Tiana’s reverence for her grandmother’s teachings was evident as she honored the ancestral knowledge that continued to guide her own artistic journey. In a moving moment, Tiana reminded us of the importance of honoring the sacrifices of our ancestors and embracing the cultural heritage that binds us together. She embodies the spirit of resilience and perseverance that defines her Polynesian heritage, reaffirming her commitment to keeping the flame of tradition alive in a rapidly changing world. Through RIMA, Tiana Nonosina Liufau invited us to embark on a journey of self-discovery, creative processes, and cultural exploration. Her artistry transcended boundaries, intertwining the threads of tradition and innovation to create a tapestry of beauty and meaning. As we immersed ourselves in the sensational rhythms of her creative processes, we were reminded of the enduring power of music and movement to unite and inspire us all, just as it did for our ancestors, our people today, and our people of tomorrow.
TIANA NONOSINA LIUFAU FILLS IN THE BLANKS
